Thinking about visiting Iceland in April? Great choice! April is one of those in-between months when winter still lingers in the mountains, but the first hints of spring appear across the countryside. You’ll see snow-capped peaks, green moss returning to lava fields, and longer days that make road trips easier and more enjoyable.
That said, the weather in Iceland in April can be unpredictable — it might snow in the morning and turn sunny in the afternoon. If you’re planning a self-drive trip, you’ll want to know what to expect from the temperature, daylight hours, driving conditions, and which rental car suits your route best.
This Firefly guide brings you everything you need to prepare for a safe and memorable trip — from realistic weather expectations to packing tips and spring driving advice tailored for April in Iceland.
🌡️ What is the weather like in Iceland in April?
April is a transition month, bridging winter’s chill with spring’s awakening. You’ll still need your warm jacket, but you’ll notice milder air, melting snow, and longer daylight hours each week.
Average April Temperatures in Iceland
| Location | Average High | Average Low | Typical Precipitation | Snow Days (avg.) |
| Reykjavík (Southwest) | 6 °C / 43 °F | 1 °C / 34 °F | 35 mm | 5-7 days |
| Akureyri (North Iceland) | 4 °C / 39 °F | -1 °C / 30 °F | 40 mm | 8-10 days |
| Egilstaðir (East Iceland) | 5 °C / 41 °F | 0 °C / 32 °F | 45 mm | 8 days |
| Ísafjörður (Westfjords) | 3 °C / 37 °F | -2 °C / 28 °F | 50 mm | 10 days |
Sunshine, Rain and Everything in Between
April is one of the most variable months of the year in Iceland. Rain, sleet, snow, and sunshine can all happen on the same day — and often do. The wind tends to pick up along coastal areas, especially in the South Coast and Snæfellsnes Peninsula, where gusts can reach 60–80 km/h.
Despite the fluctuations, April sees more stable weather than March, with fewer storms and noticeably more sunshine. It’s a refreshing time for photography, hiking, and long drives around the island.
Daylight Hours in April
One of the biggest advantages of visiting in April is the rapidly increasing daylight. At the start of the month, you’ll have around 13 hours of light, and by the end of April, the sun doesn’t set until nearly 10:15 PM.
| Date | Sunrise | Sunset | Daylight |
| April 1 | 6:45 AM | 8:15 PM | 13h 30m |
| April 15 | 5:45 AM | 9:15 PM | 15h 30m |
| April 30 | 4:45 AM | 10:15 PM | 17h 30m |
This means more time for exploring Iceland’s waterfalls, lava fields, and coastal drives. The long twilight hours create incredible soft lighting conditions, perfect for photography.
By late April, it’s easy to spend a full day sightseeing without rushing — just keep in mind that your body might take a few days to adjust to the late sunsets!
🚗 Road Conditions in Iceland in April
Driving in Iceland in April is usually straightforward and rewarding, but conditions still depend heavily on where you go. The Ring Road (Route 1) and most paved main roads are open year-round, while mountain roads (known as F-roads) remain closed until late June.
What to Expect on the Roads
- Main highways: Usually clear of snow but can be icy in the mornings.
- Gravel roads: Soft or muddy due to thawing snow; drive slower and avoid sudden braking.
- Wind exposure: Open plains and bridges can experience strong gusts, especially in the South.
- Mountain passes: Sometimes temporarily closed due to snow or slush.
Always check road.is for the latest conditions and vedur.is for wind warnings and forecasts before setting out.
💡 Local tip: Avoid driving after dark in rural areas — even though the days are longer, nighttime temperatures drop quickly and can cause black ice.
🚙 Best Car Type for April Driving
April’s mix of weather makes choosing the right car essential for safety and comfort.
- City & short trips: If you’re staying near Reykjavík or doing the Golden Circle, a 2WD compact (like a VW Polo or VW Golf) will do just fine.
- Longer road trips: For exploring the South Coast, Snæfellsnes Peninsula, or Eastfjords, a 4×4 SUV such as a Dacia Duster or VW Tiguan is highly recommended.
- Avoid F-roads: They remain closed until summer, so even with a 4×4, off-road driving is prohibited.
Firefly Iceland offers a range of budget-friendly 2WD and 4×4 options, perfect for spring driving. All cars 24/7 roadside assistance, and unlimited mileage, giving you peace of mind on your self-drive adventure.
🧭 Is April a Good Time to Visit Iceland?
Absolutely! April sits comfortably between the dark, icy winter and the busy summer season. Here’s why many travelers — and locals — love it:
- Lower prices for flights, hotels, and car rentals compared to summer.
- Smaller crowds at popular attractions like the Blue Lagoon, Gullfoss, and Seljalandsfoss.
- Long daylight hours for driving, sightseeing, and photography.
- A mix of winter and spring scenery — snow-covered mountains meet blooming moss and longer sunsets.
The only downside is that weather remains unpredictable, so it’s smart to stay flexible with your itinerary and always have a backup plan for rainy or windy days
🌈 Best Things to Do in Iceland in April
April offers a great mix of activities, combining late-winter adventures with the first outdoor fun of spring.
- Explore the South Coast One of Iceland’s most scenic drives — see Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, and Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach. The waterfalls are roaring from melting snow, and roads are clear for driving.
- Drive the Golden Circle A classic self-drive route including Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss Waterfall. By April, roads are fully accessible and conditions mild enough for a compact car.
- Visit Hot Springs Warm up in natural geothermal pools like Reykjadalur, Sky Lagoon, or the world-famous Blue Lagoon. These are open year-round, and spring evenings are ideal for a relaxing soak.
- Spot Whales and Puffins April marks the start of the whale-watching season, especially in Húsavík and Reykjavík. You may also see the first puffins returning to Iceland’s coasts by the end of the month.
- Catch the Last Northern Lights Early April still offers a chance to see the aurora borealis on clear nights. By late April, the long daylight hours make sightings rare, but if you’re lucky, you might catch one final show.
- Experience Icelandic Culture Join locals for the First Day of Summer (Sumardagurinn fyrsti) celebration — usually the third Thursday in April — with parades, family events, and free concerts in Reykjavík.
🧥 What to Pack for April in Iceland
April’s weather is mild compared to winter, but it’s still unpredictable. Think layers, not bulk.
Clothing Checklist
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Warm mid-layer (wool or fleece)
- Thermal base layers
- Hat, gloves, and scarf
- Waterproof boots
- Casual wear for Reykjavík cafés or museums
- Swimsuit and towel (for hot springs and pools)
Car Essentials
- Car Essentials Phone with Google maps and offline maps
- Portable charger Snacks and drinks (services can be sparse on long routes)
- Sunglasses — sunlight reflecting off snow can be intense
- Ice scraper (included in most Firefly rentals)
💡 Packing tip: Even if you plan mostly city sightseeing, keep a small emergency kit and extra water in your car — Iceland’s weather can surprise anyone.
📸 April Landscapes and Photography Tips
April brings some of the most dramatic skies of the year. The air is crisp, and the mix of snow, thawing rivers, and low sunlight creates perfect photography conditions.
- Morning frost and mist add texture to mountain photos.
- Sunset colors last longer, often turning pink and orange for over an hour.
- Waterfalls are powerful from melting snow — bring a lens cloth to wipe spray!
If you’re a night photographer, aim for early April to try capturing the Northern Lights over snow-covered landscapes.
💬 FAQs About Iceland in April
- Is April a good time to visit Iceland?
Yes. It’s quieter, cheaper, and filled with beautiful contrasts between snow and spring greenery.
- Can I drive the Ring Road in April?
Definitely. The Ring Road (Route 1) is open, though you may encounter ice or snow in the north. A 4×4 SUV is a great choice for extra security.
- Are the northern lights visible in April?
Sometimes — mostly in early April when nights are still dark enough. Later in the month, daylight hours are too long for good visibility.
- Does it snow in Iceland in April?
Yes, but it’s light and short-lived in most regions. Northern and mountain areas may still get several snow days.
- How cold is Iceland in April?
Temperatures range from 0°C to 7°C (32°F to 45°F), depending on location and time of day
- Is it windy in Iceland in April?
Yes — Iceland is known for strong gusts, especially along the coast. Always check wind warnings before driving.
- Are F-roads open in April?
No. All F-roads (mountain tracks) remain closed until at least mid-June due to snow and ice.
- Can I see puffins in April?
Puffins begin returning to the coast around mid to late April — especially around the Westman Islands and the cliffs of Dyrhólaey.
- What kind of car should I rent?
A compact 2WD is fine for Reykjavík and Golden Circle trips. For longer routes or rural areas, choose a 4×4 SUV from Firefly Iceland for better traction and stability.
💸 April Travel Costs & Budget Tips
April is one of the most affordable months to visit Iceland. It’s still shoulder season, meaning lower prices on flights, hotels, and car rentals.
- Car rental: from 6,000–10,000 ISK per day for a small car, or around 12,000–18,000 ISK for a 4×4 SUV.
- Hotels/guesthouses: from 15,000–25,000 ISK per night.
- Fuel: around 320–350 ISK per liter (≈ $2.50–$2.70 USD).
- Dining: expect 2,500–4,000 ISK for a casual meal per person.
💡 Best Budget Tips for an Iceland Road Trip
🧳 Suggested 5-Day April Itinerary (Self-Drive)
- Day 1: Arrive at KEF Airport → Pick up Firefly car → Visit Blue Lagoon → Stay in Reykjavík
- Day 2: Drive the Golden Circle (Þingvellir – Geysir – Gullfoss) → Overnight in Selfoss
- Day 3: South Coast (Seljalandsfoss – Skógafoss – Vík) → Stay overnight
- Day 4: Visit Reynisfjara Beach → Explore Skaftafell National Park → Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
- Day 5: Drive back to Reykjavík → Stop at Hveragerði hot river
This route avoids highland roads but covers Iceland’s best highlights that are open and accessible in April.
🌸 The “First Day of Summer” Celebration
Despite the cold, Icelanders officially welcome summer in April! The “Sumardagurinn fyrsti” (First Day of Summer) falls on the third Thursday of April. It’s a public holiday with colorful parades, children’s events, and outdoor concerts across the country.
Even if it’s snowing, locals still celebrate — because in Iceland, summer is a state of mind!
🧭 Final Thoughts: Why April Is a Great Month for a Road Trip in Iceland
April is a month of contrasts — melting snow meets fresh grass, long daylight meets unpredictable weather, and winter’s quiet turns into spring energy. For travelers, it’s the sweet spot between high prices and packed attractions.
You’ll enjoy wide-open roads, fewer tourists, and flexible travel plans — all while still seeing snow-covered mountains, waterfalls in full flow, and maybe even the last northern lights of the season.
With Firefly Iceland, renting a car is simple, affordable, and stress-free. Pick up your vehicle directly at Keflavík Airport, start your adventure as soon as you land, and drive at your own pace.
🔥 Reserve your rental car for April now on firefly.is and experience Iceland’s magical spring season — one of the best-kept secrets for budget-friendly travelers.
